The day has finally come. We (VR Zone) have just received an email from Microsoft that it will be ending the support for WinXP SP2, Vista RTM, Win 2000 Pro and Win Server 2000. Well, the operating systems will still be around, just that Microsoft will no longer provide any more security updates for them. Read on for more details.

On 13 April 2010, Vista RTM will reach the end of support while same goes for Windows XP SP2 and Windows 2000 Professional on 13 July 2010, and Windows Server 2000 too. Note that Windows 2003 will be moved from Mainstream Support to Extended Support.

The end of support means that Microsoft will no longer provide anymore security updates for these versions. According to the software maker, this is in-line with their existing support lifecycle policy since 2002.

Users should take action prior to the end of support date to ensure they are secured with their Windows PCs.

Options include: – For users who are ready to update their PCs or OS to a newer version, Windows 7 provides the best experience today. Windows 7 is faster, easier and works the way customers want.– Users not ready to upgrade and continue to use Windows XP or Windows Vista should download and install the latest service pack: either Windows XP SP3 or Windows Vista SP2

Microsoft is making it as easy as possible for customers to understand what version of Windows XP and Windows Vista they’re using today and how to upgrade their PCs to the version that’s right for them– Users should visit http://windows.microsoft.com/eos for information and assistance.– For SMB customers with a Select agreement, we will continue to offer the “Up to Date Discount” program through July 2010. Visit www.windows.com/business for more information– For enterprise customers that need to stay on the unsupported products, there is the option for them to purchase custom support, to continue to receive custom updates.

Updates that keep customers’ PCs safe are provided through Windows Update at no cost. Microsoft recommend user to turn on automatic updates to get critical updates automatically, and check in every once in a while to make sure they are getting all the latest improvements for your PC. (This includes upgrading to Internet Explorer 8 and downloading Microsoft Security Essentials).